3 Of The Week: (3/18/14)

Being the most popular bands in the metalcore scene right now, it was necessary for Bring Me The Horizon and Of Mice & Men to tour together. This dream became a reality when the American Dream Tour kicked off at the beginning of February. The rawness of Bring Me The Horizon’s emotional power and the hope that Of Mice & Men express through their melodic refrains and brutal riffs call for an unforgettable tour experience. How can the lineup get any better? Add Issues of course! Their popularity has been on a constant rise with their self-titled album that was released in February. The hardcore flare intertwined with EDM elements in their music gives this lineup a fun and exciting twist. Anyone who surrounds themselves with the popular music of the scene knows that this is the concert to go to. And we all know that the best way to get pumped for a show is to listen to the bands’ best songs on replay!

1. “The House Of Wolves” – Bring Me The Horizon

The release of Bring Me the Horizon’s fourth album, Sempiternal, became a worldwide success because of the band’s fresh ideas and ambient sound. A highlight from this album is the track “The House of Wolves”. Lead singer Oliver Sykes uses his unique voice to its full potential in this track, releasing emotional cries and intense screams throughout. The fast-paced tempo of the guitar riffs translates into heavy breakdowns, only to be strengthened by the powerful melody of the refrain. These elements produce a powerful explosion on Sempiternal that’s definitely a crowd favorite.

2. “Feels Like Forever” – Of Mice & Men

2014 is going to be a big year for Of Mice & Men. Their newest album, Restoring Force, just dropped in January and is their most successful one yet. On this record, they thrive in altering their original style in order to get in touch with their rock and roll side. “Feels Like Forever” supplies this vibe with its completely new sound. The verses consist of the slow groove of guitar and a new style to Austin Carlile’s vocals. His powerful growls are clearly sung and tuned to match the song’s melody. This tempo then crescendos into a commanding and smooth chorus, guided by clean vocalist Aaron Pauley. The features of an unbroken beat and flowing instrumentals encourage this upsurge. To top it all off, the inspiring lyrics like, “Don’t let go, time will heal” appeal to listeners and represent the message Of Mice & Men portray in their music.

3. “Hooligans” – Issues

Issues have been making a major statement in the scene with their individuality of mixing R&B, EDM and metalcore styles to create their own unique sound. The anticipation of their self-titled album is making fans restless after their debut EP Black Diamonds and the release of their single, “Hooligans”. This song revolves around every aspect of Issues, immediately beginning with a layered mix of electronic beats and heavy riffs. Vocals vary from Michael Bohn’s potent screams to the soulful sound of Tyler Carter’s voice. This interesting combination is what makes this track so uplifting and exciting. The quick transition of brutal breakdowns to refreshing choruses gives it constant distinction that catches the attention of listeners. These vital characteristics to “Hooligans” make this track the infamous crowd-mover that booms during live shows.

I'm one of those music kids from New Jersey. However, my lack of skills in playing instruments and creating music has driven my need to be involved in the music scene in a different way. Thank god for my ability to write. If you put my iPod on shuffle you would find Of Mice & Men, Amy Winehouse, Beartooth, Fall Out Boy, Florence and the Machine, My Chemical Romance, Guns N' Roses, and even Lady Gaga. There is nothing I enjoy more than expanding my musical knowledge and building my career in the music industry.